Alkatral Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Blood in urine or stool
- Severe abdominal or flank pain
- High fever with chills and burning urination
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Muscle twitching, confusion, or irritability
- Decreased urine output or inability to pass urine
- Persistent vomiting
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is alkatral syrup used for?
This medicine is an oral syrup containing Disodium Hydrogen Citrate, which makes urine less acidic and helps relieve burning during urination. It is used for symptomatic relief of dysuria and to support uric acid stone prevention. It is not an antibiotic and does not treat infection directly.
- Generic Name: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.55mg)
- Manufacturer: Smilax Pharmaceuticals
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 alkatral syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा डिसोडियम हाइड्रोजन सिट्रेट सिरप है, जो पेशाब को कम अम्लीय बनाकर पेशाब करते समय होने वाली जलन और दर्द में राहत देती है। इसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से पेशाब में जलन, बार-बार पेशाब आना और यूरिक एसिड की पथरी की रोकथाम में किया जाता है। यह एंटीबायोटिक नहीं है, इसलिए यह संक्रमण को नहीं मारती। अगर आपको पेशाब में जलन के साथ बुखार या ठंड लग रही है, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में हल्का पेट दर्द, जी मिचलाना, दस्त, अधिक प्यास लगना और पेशाब बार-बार आना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और शरीर के सामान्य होने पर ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी अधिक मात्रा में लेने से मेटाबॉलिक एल्कलोसिस हो सकता है, जिसमें मांसपेशियों में ऐंठन, चिड़चिड़ापन या भ्रम हो सकता है। अगर ऐसे लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर द्वारा बताई गई मात्रा और अवधि तक ही लें। दिन भर पर्याप्त पानी पिएं ताकि दवा अच्छे से काम करे और किडनी स्वस्थ रहे। अगर आपको हाई ब्लड प्रेशर, हृदय रोग, किडनी रोग है या आप नमक कम खाते हैं, तो दवा शुरू करने से पहले डॉक्टर को बताएं। एंटासिड के साथ इस दवा को न लें, क्योंकि इससे दवा का असर कम हो सकता है। अगर लक्षण बढ़ें या नए लक्षण जैसे बुखार, सूजन दिखें, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
💊 alkatral syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Dysuria (painful or burning urination)","description":"This medicine helps relieve the burning and discomfort during urination by making the urine less acidic, which reduces irritation of the urinary tract lining.","evidence":"Well-established for symptomatic relief"},{"condition":"Urinary alkalinization in uric acid stone disease","description":"This medicine is used to raise urine pH, which helps dissolve and prevent the formation of uric acid stones in patients who are advised to alkalinize their urine.","evidence":"Established in clinical practice"},{"condition":"Symptomatic relief in mild urinary tract irritation","description":"This medicine provides comfort from urinary burning while the underlying cause, such as infection, is being treated with appropriate medicines.","evidence":"Supportive and symptomatic use"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cystine stone prevention","description":"Sometimes used to alkalinize urine in patients with cystine stones, but this requires specialist supervision and is not a first-line approach.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chemotherapy-related urinary irritation","description":"Occasionally used to reduce bladder irritation from certain chemotherapy drugs, but this is decided by the treating oncologist.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Dysuria (painful urination)
Also treats: Uric acid kidney stones, Urinary tract irritation
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.55mg) |
| Brand Name | alkatral syrup |
| Manufacturer | Smilax Pharmaceuticals |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | UROLOGY |
| Action Class | Uricosuric agent-gout |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature, below 30°C, in a cool, dry place. Protect from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by supplying citrate ions that are absorbed and then metabolized in the body to produce bicarbonate. The bicarbonate is excreted in the urine, where it neutralizes excess acid and raises the urine pH. This alkalinization reduces the irritation caused by acidic urine on the bladder and urethral lining, which is why it helps relieve burning during urination. In stone disease, the higher urine pH increases the solubility of uric acid, making it less likely to form crystals and stones. This medicine does not directly kill bacteria or treat infection; it only changes the chemical environment of the urine.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take alkatral syrup
Strength: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate 1.55 mg per 5 mL syrup (as per composition).
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 to 15 mL of syrup taken two to three times a day, or as directed by your doctor. The exact dose depends on the reason it is being used, your age, kidney function, and other medical conditions. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose. Always follow the prescription provided by your healthcare professional. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults may be more sensitive to the sodium content and electrolyte effects of this medicine. The dose should be individualized by a clinician, and kidney function and blood pressure should be monitored during use. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with reduced kidney function, this medicine should be used with caution because the kidneys are responsible for excreting the bicarbonate and maintaining electrolyte balance. Dose adjustment may be needed, and use should be supervised by a doctor. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for liver disease. However, patients with severe liver disease should use this medicine only under medical supervision. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not established from the available information. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of alkatral syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Antacids | Major | |
| Potassium-sparing diuretics | Major | |
| Amphetamines | Moderate | |
| Lithium | Moderate | |
| Salicylates | Moderate | |
| Methenamine | Minor | |
| Tetracyclines | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum or calcium
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Amphetamines
- Lithium
- Salicylates (e.g., aspirin in high doses)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol can worsen dehydration and may increase stomach irritation when taken with this medicine. It is best to avoid alcohol while you are using this product, especially if you have a urinary tract infection or are taking other medicines.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Severe kidney disease or kidney failure","Uncontrolled high blood pressure","Heart failure or fluid retention states","Metabolic alkalosis","Hypernatremia (high sodium levels)","Known allergy to any ingredient of this medicine","Strict low-sodium diet without medical approval"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine contains sodium, so people on a low-salt diet should use it only if advised by a doctor.","Do not use this medicine to treat a suspected urinary tract infection without medical advice, because it does not kill bacteria.","Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to help it work and to protect your kidneys.","Avoid taking antacids at the same time, as they can reduce the effect of this medicine.","If you have heart, kidney, or liver disease, use this medicine only under medical supervision.","Do not exceed the recommended dose, as it can cause metabolic alkalosis.","Keep out of reach of children."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk in significant amounts. Consult your doctor before using this product while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
If you suspect an overdose of this medicine, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose can cause metabolic alkalosis, nausea, vomiting, and electrolyte disturbances. Treatment is supportive and may include monitoring of blood electrolytes and urine pH. Do not try to treat yourself at home.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly in the dose and for the duration advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Drink plenty of water throughout the day while you are using this product, because good hydration helps the medicine work better and supports kidney health. If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or you are on a low-salt diet, tell your doctor before starting this medicine, because it contains sodium. Do not take antacids or other medicines for stomach acidity at the same time without asking your doctor, as they can reduce the effect of this medicine. Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check whether your symptoms are improving and whether your urine pH or blood electrolytes need monitoring. Stop the medicine and contact a doctor if your symptoms get worse, if you develop new symptoms such as fever with chills, or if you notice swelling in your legs or face.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults may be more sensitive to the sodium content and electrolyte changes caused by this medicine. Kidney function often declines with age, so dose adjustment and monitoring may be needed. Use with caution in those with heart failure or hypertension.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not well established, and your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, especially urinary or kidney surgery, use this medicine only if prescribed by your surgeon or doctor. It may affect fluid and electrolyte balance, which needs monitoring after surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
There are no specific precautions for dental procedures while taking this medicine. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
There are no specific exercise restrictions while taking this medicine. However, if you feel dizzy or unwell, avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better. Stay hydrated during exercise.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine generally does not affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you experience dizziness, nausea, or frequent urination that interferes with your activities, use caution. Inform your employer if you need frequent bathroom breaks.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within a few days, if they worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, chills, or blood in urine. Do not stop a prescribed course without talking to your doctor, especially if you are using it for stone prevention.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may affect electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium levels, and can lead to metabolic alkalosis if taken in excess. Regular monitoring of blood electrolytes and urine pH is advised for people who use it for extended periods, especially those with kidney or heart disease. It is important to review the need for continued use with your doctor periodically.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Drinking more water helps dilute urine and reduce irritation, complementing the effect of this medicine.
Evidence: Well-establishedReducing high-purine and high-oxalate foods can help prevent kidney stones and reduce urinary irritation.
Evidence: Well-establishedIf a urinary tract infection is confirmed, antibiotics are necessary to treat the infection. This medicine only provides symptom relief.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are unwell with a fever or infection, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep the bottle tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Keep a copy of your prescription with you, especially when traveling internationally. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, continue your doses at regular intervals as advised by your doctor. Declare it at customs if required. Do not leave it in a hot car or checked luggage.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Symptomatic relief from burning urination may begin within a few hours after taking a dose, but the exact onset time can vary. If your symptoms do not improve within 2 to 3 days, consult your doctor.
A: Yes, this medicine is often prescribed along with antibiotics for urinary tract infections. However, it does not replace antibiotics. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
A: Long-term use should be supervised by a doctor, especially if you have kidney, heart, or blood pressure problems. Regular monitoring of electrolytes and urine pH may be needed.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure urinary tract infections.
Fact: This medicine only relieves burning and discomfort by making urine less acidic. It does not kill bacteria, so antibiotics are needed if an infection is present. - Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose does not speed up relief and can cause serious side effects like metabolic alkalosis. - Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: People with kidney disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, or those on a low-sodium diet should avoid it unless a doctor approves.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Disodium Hydrogen Citrate syrup (generic)